Zelensky Invites Pope Leo XIV to Ukraine in First Official Call
In a meaningful first conversation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky extended an invitation to Pope Leo XIV to visit Ukraine, expressing hope that such a visit would lift the spirits of millions.
“I invited His Holiness to visit Ukraine. It would be a powerful symbol of hope for our people,” Zelensky shared in a heartfelt message posted online following the call.
The two also touched on a deeply emotional topic—Ukrainian children taken from their families during the war. Zelensky voiced his hope that the Vatican would play a key role in helping bring those children home.
The conversation came just a day after Pope Leo addressed a massive crowd from St. Peter’s Basilica, where he passionately called for peace, declaring, “No more war!” His words echoed the pleas of countless Ukrainians longing for an end to the violence.
Leo also called for what he described as a “true, just, and lasting peace”—a message that aligned with his predecessor’s vision, though Pope Francis’ stance had often drawn criticism in Ukraine for not explicitly condemning Russia’s role in the conflict.
Despite some earlier frustrations, Kyiv has acknowledged the Vatican’s efforts in brokering prisoner swaps and advocating for the return of children displaced during the war.
Zelensky added that he briefed the Pope on a joint ceasefire initiative backed by Ukraine and its allies. Both leaders expressed interest in meeting face-to-face soon.
